PVCs awareness

Overview

PVCs (premature ventricular contractions) are extra heartbeats that begin in the lower chambers of your heart, called the ventricles. They often feel like a fluttering or skipped beat and are usually harmless.

Yes, PVCs are very common. Many people have them without knowing.

PVCs can affect people of any age, but they are more common in older adults and in those with certain heart conditions, such as high blood pressure or a previous heart attack.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A fluttering or thumping sensation in the chest
• A feeling that the heart has skipped a beat
• A pounding or racing heartbeat
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Shortness of breath (less common)

Symptoms in children

• Many children with PVCs have no symptoms at all
• Some may feel a fluttering or skipped beat in their chest

Symptoms in older adults

• Symptoms are similar to those in younger adults, but may be more noticeable if the heart is weaker due to other conditions
• Older adults are more likely to have other heart problems, so symptoms should be checked promptly

Causes

Main causes

• Stress or anxiety
• Caffeine or energy drinks
• Alcohol or smoking
• Lack of sleep or extreme tiredness
• Certain medications (such as decongestants)
• Electrolyte imbalances (like low potassium or magnesium)
• Underlying heart conditions (such as cardiomyopathy or heart valve problems)

Risk factors

• High blood pressure
• Previous heart attack
• Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy)
• Chronic anxiety or panic disorder
• Being older (over 50)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath along with palpitations

Book a routine appointment if:

• If palpitations bother you or affect your daily life
• If you have a known heart condition and notice a change in your heartbeat
• For a check-up if you are worried about your heart health

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, listen to your heart, and may order tests to see how often PVCs happen and whether they are harmless.

Tests that may be done

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) – a simple test that records your heart's electrical activity
• Holter monitor – a portable device you wear for 24 hours or longer to catch PVCs during your normal day
• Echocardiogram – an ultrasound of your heart to check its structure and function
• Event monitor – similar to a Holter but worn for a longer period to record symptoms when they occur

What to expect at your appointment

You will have a physical exam and discuss your symptoms. If your doctor suspects PVCs, they may ask you to wear a small heart monitor for a day or two. Most tests are painless and can be done in a clinic or as an outpatient.

Treatment

For most people, PVCs do not need any treatment. If symptoms are bothersome or if you have underlying heart disease, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help control the extra beats.

Self-care at home

• Reduce or avoid caffeine, alcohol, and energy drinks
• Manage stress with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation
• Get enough sleep and rest
• Stay active with moderate exercise, but avoid heavy triggers that cause symptoms
• Avoid smoking and illegal drugs

Medical treatments

If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may prescribe medicines that help calm the heart's rhythm. These are usually beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers – your doctor will discuss which may be right for you. Never take any heart medication without a prescription.

When is surgery considered?

In rare cases where PVCs are very frequent and cause serious symptoms or weaken the heart, a procedure called catheter ablation may be considered. This uses energy to destroy the tiny area of heart tissue causing the extra beats.

Living with this condition

Most people with PVCs live normal, active lives. The extra beats often come and go. Keeping a diary of when you notice them may help you identify triggers.

Lifestyle tips

• Identify and avoid your personal triggers (e.g., certain foods, stress, lack of sleep)
• Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water
• Exercise regularly with activities like walking, swimming, or yoga
• Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine if you have heart disease

Diet and exercise

Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid large meals high in sugar or fat, which can sometimes trigger palpitations. Exercise is safe for most people, but listen to your body and stop if you feel uncomfortable.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It's natural to feel anxious when you notice your heart skipping a beat. Many people worry about their heart health even when PVCs are harmless. If anxiety affects your daily life, talk to your doctor about support.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent PVCs, but you can reduce how often they happen by avoiding common triggers like too much caffeine, alcohol, lack of sleep, and stress. Managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure may also help.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for PVCs.

Screening programmes

Routine screening for PVCs is not recommended for everyone. Your doctor may suggest an ECG if you have symptoms or a high risk of heart disease.

Complications

If left untreated

• In people with heart disease, frequent PVCs can sometimes lead to a weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) over time
• Very rarely, PVCs can trigger a more serious irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of people, PVCs are harmless and do not affect life expectancy. With simple lifestyle changes and, if needed, medical care, most people manage PVCs without any impact on their quality of life.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.